Where Yankees’ New $80 Million Slugger Cody Bellinger Will Play After Blockbuster Trade
In the aftermath of a major offseason splash, the New York Yankees have acquired star slugger **Cody Bellinger** in a blockbuster deal, securing his talents with an $80 million contract. Bellinger, a former MVP and one of baseball’s most dynamic hitters, is set to bring his power bat and versatile defense to the Bronx. Now, the question on everyone’s mind is: where will Bellinger play for the Yankees in 2024?
### Bellinger’s Versatility: A Key Asset
Cody Bellinger is known for his ability to play multiple positions effectively. During his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs, Bellinger excelled both in the outfield and at first base. This versatility gives Yankees manager **Aaron Boone** a wealth of options when building the lineup.
With an already crowded Yankees roster, particularly in the outfield, Bellinger’s defensive flexibility could be a deciding factor.
### Center Field: The Most Likely Landing Spot
The Yankees have long sought a reliable solution in center field, and Bellinger could be the answer. In 2023, Harrison Bader’s departure left a void in center, which New York struggled to fill consistently. While **Aaron Judge** spent time there, his natural position remains in right field to preserve his health and maximize his value.
Bellinger, who has won a Gold Glove in center field, provides an immediate upgrade defensively. His speed, range, and instincts make him an ideal fit patrolling the spacious outfield at Yankee Stadium.
Boone has expressed confidence in Bellinger’s ability to anchor the position, stating, *“Cody gives us a dynamic center fielder with elite defense and a left-handed bat we’ve been missing.”*
### First Base: A Backup Plan?
While center field appears to be Bellinger’s primary role, there’s a possibility he sees time at first base. **Anthony Rizzo** currently occupies the position, but after dealing with injury issues in 2023, Rizzo’s durability could be a concern moving forward. Bellinger’s past success at first—where he earned a Gold Glove in 2019—gives the Yankees a reliable option should Rizzo need rest.
This flexibility allows the Yankees to keep Bellinger’s bat in the lineup while managing other players’ health.
The Bat the Yankees Needed
The Yankees’ pursuit of Bellinger was fueled by their need for consistent left-handed power. Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch is tailor-made for a slugger like Bellinger, who thrives on pulling the ball for home runs.
After a strong 2023 season with the Chicago Cubs, where he slashed **.307/.356/.525** with 26 home runs and 97 RBIs, Bellinger proved he’s still an elite hitter capable of anchoring a lineup. Adding him alongside Judge and Giancarlo Stanton gives the Yankees one of the most formidable middle-of-the-orders in baseball.
### Yankees’ Outfield Depth
The addition of Bellinger shakes up the Yankees’ outfield mix. **Aaron Judge** will remain in right field, while **Juan Soto**, acquired earlier this offseason, projects to start in left field. With Bellinger in center, the Yankees now have one of the strongest defensive outfields in the league, as well as unmatched offensive firepower.
The depth chart also includes **Oswaldo Cabrera** and **Trent Grisham**, who can rotate as backups, ensuring Boone has options to rest players as needed throughout the long season.
### Final Thoughts
Cody Bellinger’s arrival in New York is a game-changer for the Yankees. With his likely spot as the starting center fielder, he brings elite defense, a powerful left-handed bat, and the versatility to play multiple positions. For an $80 million investment, the Yankees have landed a proven star who can help them contend for a World Series title in 2024.
As spring training approaches, all eyes will be on Bellinger as he dons pinstripes and settles into his new role. The Bronx Bombers have made their move—now it’s time to see if Bellinger can help bring another championship back to Yankee Stadium.
